Blog

Category: Mortgage (125 posts)

Mortgage Renewals in Early 2025 – Where Might Rates End Up?

May 4, 2025 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

A friendly guide for Canadian homeowners who are about to renegotiate one of the biggest contracts of their lives. Introduction - Why Everyone Is Talking About 2025 Renewals If your mortgage is co ...

April 16 - 2025 - Bank of Canada holds policy rate at 2.75%

April 16, 2025 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

The Bank of Canada today maintained its target for the overnight rate at 2.75%, with the Bank Rate at 3% and the deposit rate at 2.70%. The major shift in direction of US trade policy a ...

Tariffs and Their Effect on Interest Rates: What Canadian Homeowners Should Know

April 5, 2025 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

You might be surprised to learn how tariffs-taxes on imported goods-can affect your mortgage or home-buying plans. Tariffs can indirectly influence interest rates, which impacts mortgage payments and ...

Spring Market Outlook: What Buyers and Homeowners Need to Know

March 26, 2025 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

Spring is here, and with it comes one of the busiest times in the Canadian housing market. As the snow melts and For Sale signs start popping up, many buyers and sellers are wondering: what's the mark ...

Pros & Cons of Paying Off Your Mortgage Before Retirement

March 21, 2025 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

If retirement is approaching, you may be considering whether it's wise to pay off your mortgage early. As with many significant financial decisions, there isn't a one-size-fits-all answer. However, ...

March 12-2025 - Bank of Canada reduces policy rate by 25 basis points to 2.75%

March 12, 2025 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

The Bank of Canada today reduced its target for the overnight rate to 2.75%, with the Bank Rate at 3% and the deposit rate at 2.70%. The Canadian economy entered 2025 in a solid position, with infl ...

Mortgage Renewal Coming UP and rates higher than 5 yrs ago - Consider increasing your amortization?

March 7, 2025 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

If your mortgage renewal date is approaching, it's important to take action. You might notice something that's hard to ignore: interest rates are significantly higher now than five years ago. You're n ...

How will tariffs potentially affect Interest rates

February 26, 2025 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

As a mortgage broker in Canada, I often get questions about how global economic events might affect our financial landscape, particularly when it comes to interest rates and the cost of borrowing. One ...

Navigating Uncertainty: How trade tensions could impact mortgages, housing, and rates

February 21, 2025 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

With trade wars and tariffs dominating the headlines recently, many are wondering what effect this could have on the housing market. Lower interest rates offer some relief but we're now facing the pot ...

Is Now the Right Time to Refinance Your Mortgage?

February 5, 2025 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

With interest rates in Canada decreasing, many homeowners are considering whether this may be the ideal time to refinance. Refinancing involves replacing your current mortgage with a new one, idea ...

Bank of Canada reduces policy rate by 25 basis points to 3%, announces end of quantitative tightening

January 29, 2025 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

The Bank of Canada today reduced its target for the overnight rate to 3%, with the Bank Rate at 3.25% and the deposit rate at 2.95%. The Bank is also announcing its plan to complete the no ...

Fixed-Rate vs. Adjustable-Rate Mortgages: Which Might Be Right for You?

January 21, 2025 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

Hello there, and welcome! As a mortgage broker here in Canada, I know that diving into the world of mortgages can feel like stepping into a labyrinth of numbers and jargon. Today, let's have a fri ...

Government announces boldest mortgage reforms in decades to unlock homeownership for more Canadians

December 16, 2024 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

Canadians work hard to be able to afford a home. However, the high cost of mortgage payments is a barrier to homeownership, especially for Millennials and Gen Z. To help more Canadians, particularly ...

Dec 11-2024 - Bank of Canada reduces policy rate by 50 basis points to 3.25%

December 11, 2024 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

The Bank of Canada today reduced its target for the overnight rate to 3¼%, with the Bank Rate at 3¾% and the deposit rate at 3¼%. The Bank is continuing its policy of balance sheet no ...

Six reasons to work with an expert on your mortgage renewal

November 23, 2024 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

Given the large financial commitment of a mortgage, it's surprising that so many homeowners go on auto-pilot when it's time renew. Of course, your lender wants your repeat business and their renewal l ...

Unlocking Home Ownership: What Canadian Homebuyers Need to Know About Property Value

November 4, 2024 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

The Canadian dream of home ownership is evolving. With fluctuating property values and shifting market dynamics, understanding the real estate landscape is more crucial than ever for prospective hom ...

Mortgage Reforms Announced by the Government of Canada

October 24, 2024 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

I'm excited to bring you the latest edition of my newsletter, packed with important updates and tips to help you stay informed and empowered in your homeownership journey! This month, I'm coverin ...

October 23-2024: Bank of Canada reduces policy rate by 50 basis points to 3.75%

October 23, 2024 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

The Bank of Canada today reduced its target for the overnight rate to 3¾%, with the Bank Rate at 4% and the deposit rate at 3¾%. The Bank is continuing its policy of balance sheet normalization. ...

Is a Reverse Mortgage Right for You?

October 8, 2024 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

A reverse mortgage is a great financial tool for homeowners over 55 who want to stay in their homes while accessing the value they've built up over the years. It provides additional income, eliminates ...

Be Prepared! Expert Tips for Mortgage Renewal Success

September 20, 2024 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

Recent data from Mortgage Professionals Canada shows that 23% of all Canadian mortgage holders will renew their mortgage within the next year, and a staggering 50% will renew within two years. &nb ...

With Lower Interest Rates, Is Now a Good Time to Refinance My Mortgage?

September 6, 2024 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

With interest rates dropping, many homeowners ask the same question: Is now the right time to refinance my mortgage?* The simple answer? It could be! But as with most financial decisions, a few factor ...

Sept 4th, 2024 - Bank of Canada reduces policy rate by 25 basis points to 4.25%

September 4, 2024 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

The Bank of Canada today reduced its target for the overnight rate to 4¼%, with the Bank Rate at 4½% and the deposit rate at 4¼%. The Bank is continuing its policy of balance sheet normalization. ...

How Lower Interest Rates Could Benefit Canadian Homeowners: Is Now the Time to Refinance?

August 23, 2024 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

As a Canadian homeowner, you're probably hearing a lot of buzz about falling interest rates. You might be wondering, "Is this the right time to refinance my mortgage?" The short answer is, it could be ...

How bond yields impact fixed mortgage rates

August 21, 2024 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

In the ever-evolving landscape of mortgage financing, it's crucial to understand how external financial factors can influence mortgage rates. One significant factor is the bond market, both in Canada ...

What are Alternative Mortgage Lenders?

August 8, 2024 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

In the dynamic world of real estate, securing a mortgage can often be daunting, especially for individuals with unique financial situations. This is where alternative mortgage lenders come into play ...

July 7, 2024 - Bank of Canada reduces policy rate by 25 basis points to 4.5%

July 24, 2024 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

The Bank of Canada today reduced its target for the overnight rate to 4½%, with the Bank Rate at 4¾% and the deposit rate at 4½%. The Bank is continuing its policy of balance sheet normalization. ...

7 Things to Know When You Are Looking to Purchase a Cottage or Vacation Home

July 8, 2024 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

Purchasing a cottage or vacation home can be an exciting venture, offering a perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life. However, it's essential to approach this purchase with careful con ...

7 Smart Strategies to Help Save Money on Your Mortgage

June 21, 2024 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

Hello, and welcome to our blog! If you're reading this, chances are you're looking for ways to make your mortgage more manageable. Whether you're a first-time homebuyer or a seasoned homeowner, findin ...

How Lower Interest Rates Can Impact Your Mortgage: Insights for Canadians

June 7, 2024 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

The Bank of Canada recently made headlines by lowering its interest rates for the first time in over two years. This decision has significant implications for Canadians, particularly t ...

June 5 - 2024 - Bank of Canada reduces policy rate by 25 basis points

June 5, 2024 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

The Bank of Canada today reduced its target for the overnight rate to 4¾%, with the Bank Rate at 5% and the deposit rate at 4¾%. The Bank is continuing its policy of balance sheet normalization. ...

When to Consider a Private Mortgage: A Guide for Canadian Homebuyers

May 23, 2024 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

Navigating the world of Canadian mortgages can be scary, especially when traditional lenders, like banks and credit unions, close their doors. This is where private mortgages come into play. For ...

Home improvement: Which projects boost your property value?

May 9, 2024 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

For many homeowners, home improvements aren't just about creating a more comfortable living space - they're also key to boosting property value. Here are the home improvement projects that offer the h ...

5 Great Ways to Improve Your Credit Score

May 8, 2024 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

As a mortgage professional, we often work with clients who are eager to improve their credit scores. A higher credit score not only increases your chances of getting approved for a mortgage bu ...

RRSP Home Buyers Plan

April 24, 2024 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

In 2024, the Canadian government made significant changes to the Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP) Home Buyers' Plan (HBP), aiming to make homeownership more accessible, particularly for ...

Paying off your mortgage early - The Pros and Cons

April 10, 2024 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

Certainly! Paying off your mortgage early is a significant financial decision that many Canadians grapple with. It can be an appealing goal, offering both financial freedom and peace of mind. That sai ...

April 10-2024 - Bank of Canada maintains policy rate, continues quantitative tightening

April 10, 2024 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

The Bank of Canada today held its target for the overnight rate at 5%, with the Bank Rate at 5¼% and the deposit rate at 5%. The Bank is continuing its policy of quantitative tightening. The Bank ...

The Impact of Canadian Economic Trends on Mortgage Rates: What You Need to Know

March 27, 2024 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

Navigating the world of mortgages can sometimes feel like trying to predict the weather in Canada: just when you think you've got it figured out, things change. But unlike the weather, understanding ...

Unlocking the Door to Home Ownership: Simple Tips to Boost Your Credit Score

March 20, 2024 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

Hello, homebuyers and financial enthusiasts! Today, we're diving into a topic that's as crucial as it is misunderstood: your credit score. Think of your credit score like a key. The higher it is, the ...

Time to spring forward with your mortgage goals!

March 8, 2024 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

As the days grow longer, we warmly welcome the arrival of spring – a season of renewal and growth. Just as we set our clocks forward for daylight saving time, it's a perfect moment to take proactive ...

Bank of Canada maintains policy rate, continues quantitative tightening

March 6, 2024 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

The Bank of Canada today held its target for the overnight rate at 5%, with the Bank Rate at 5.25% and the deposit rate at 5%. The Bank is continuing its policy of quantitative tightening. Global e ...

Managing Your Mortgage Renewal in a High-Rate Environment

February 10, 2024 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

Hello homeowners. With interest rates higher than they have been in many years, many of you might be anxious about your upcoming mortgage renewal. It's completely understandable, and you're not alon ...

RRSP contributions, home equity, and mortgage strategies to build wealth

February 9, 2024 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

As we find ourselves in the midst of RRSP season, it's an opportune time for homeowners like you to evaluate how your property can be a pivotal asset in boosting your financial growth. The deadline fo ...

Bank of Canada maintains policy rate, continues quantitative tightening

January 24, 2024 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

Bank of Canada's 2024 Outlook: A Year of Consideration

January 15, 2024 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

Bank of Canada's 2024 Outlook: A Year of Consideration Happy New Year! I hope you had a wonderful holiday season and are ready to embark on a prosperous 2024. As we usher in the new year, I want to ...

Should I break my mortgage early?

January 3, 2024 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

The house you've had your eye on for years comes up for sale and you jump at it, interest rates have dropped or another lender is offering you what appears to be a better deal, you've recently gone th ...

Navigating High Interest Rates: Strategies for New Home Buyers Across Canada

December 19, 2023 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

Introduction In today's economic landscape, we're seeing a trend that can be quite intimidating for anyone looking to step into the world of home ownership – high interest rates. But fear not! This ...

Navigating Your Mortgage: Practical Tips from the Experts

December 14, 2023 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

Managing a mortgage is a journey that requires careful navigation. Mortgage brokers understand the challenges and uncertainties homeowners face when it comes to their mortgage payments. Today's e ...

Exploring Mortgage Amortization Extensions

December 7, 2023 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

Recent inflation numbers indicate that inflation is slowing, and many economists are saying that the most recent drop in the inflation rate will give the Bank of Canada the slack that it needs to hit ...

Bank of Canada maintains policy rate, continues quantitative tightening

December 6, 2023 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

The Bank of Canada today held its target for the overnight rate at 5%, with the Bank Rate at 5.25% and the deposit rate at 5%. The Bank is continuing its policy of quantitative tightening. The ...

Navigating the New Normal: How Remote Work is Reshaping the Canadian Mortgage and Real Estate Landscape

December 3, 2023 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

In recent years, we've witnessed a seismic shift in our work lives, notably the rise of remote work catalyzed by the COVID-19 pandemic. This change isn't just about swapping office desks for dinin ...

Canada's New Updated Mortgage Charter

November 23, 2023 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

The Canadian Mortgage Charter spells out the rights consumers have when they are renegotiating mortgages. It calls on financial institutions to provide better relief measures over the next three y ...

Understanding Fixed vs. Variable Rate Mortgages

November 15, 2023 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

If you're on the cusp of getting a mortgage, or if you're considering refinancing, you've likely encountered the terms "fixed rate" and "variable rate" mortgage. These are the two primary pathways i ...

Home Equity: Refinancing or Second Mortgage

November 9, 2023 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

Home Equity: Refinancing or Second Mortgage Considering the 2023 housing market's dynamics, with its high interest rates and market unpredictability, let's discuss the significance of home equity. ...

6 things to know about capital gains and taxes for people across Canada

November 2, 2023 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

So, you made some cash selling your property or stocks at a higher price than you bought them for? High five! But before you start celebrating, there's this thing called capital gains that might show ...

Bank Of Canada Rate Update October 25, 2023

October 25, 2023 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

Bank of Canada maintains policy rate, continues quantitative tightening The Bank of Canada today held its target for the overnight rate at 5%, with the Bank Rate at 5.25% and the deposit rate at 5% ...

Mortgage Strategies in a Rising Interest Rate Environment

October 24, 2023 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

Hello dear readers, Let's have a coffee chat, shall we? If we were sitting in a cozy café, sipping on lattes (or your beverage of choice), today's hot topic of conversation would undoubtedly revol ...

Leveraging Your Home Equity to Help Purchase a Home For Your Children: A Prudent Move?

October 6, 2023 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

Navigating Parental Assistance in Home Purchases The concept of parents aiding their children in stepping onto the property ladder is not a new one yet it is not ubiquitously adopted. A 2021 ...

Understanding and Utilizing Home Equity

October 1, 2023 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

If you've consistently made mortgage payments over the years, you've been accumulating home equity. As this equity grows, homeowners can access it, converting it into cash for various purposes, from h ...

Can a first-time home buyer have a mortgage co-signer?

September 17, 2023 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

Can New Home Buyers in Canada Use a Mortgage Co-Signer? Struggling to secure a mortgage or need a financial boost? Consider bringing in a co-signer. Dive deeper into this and other home-buying tact ...

Demystifying Credit Scores

September 7, 2023 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

These days, like so many things, your credit score is easily accessible and free. Not so long ago, the only way to see your credit score was to obtain a copy of your credit report, which involved subm ...

Bank of Canada maintains policy rate, continues quantitative tightening

September 6, 2023 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

The Bank of Canada today held its target for the overnight rate at 5%, with the Bank Rate at 5¼% and the deposit rate at 5%. The Bank is also continuing its policy of quantitative tightening. Infl ...

Top Reasons To Refinance Your Home And Reasons Why You Maybe Should Not.

August 23, 2023 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

Refinancing a mortgage means replacing your existing loan with a new one, either with your current lender or a different one. Canadians often consider refinancing for various reasons, such as ...

Navigating High-Interest Rates and Inflation: Your Path to Mortgage Resilience

August 5, 2023 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

Introduction As your trusted mortgage broker, I understand that the current economic backdrop in Canada is presenting challenges for many homeowners. With interest rates on the rise and inflation p ...

Understanding Credit Scores and Maximizing Mortgage Opportunities in Canada

July 27, 2023 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

Introduction In Canada, your credit score plays a crucial role in your financial life, especially when it comes to major transactions like securing a mortgage. A credit score is a numerical r ...

Bank of Canada raises policy rate 25 basis points, continues quantitative tightening

July 12, 2023 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

The Bank of Canada today increased its target for the overnight rate to 5%, with the Bank Rate at 5¼% and the deposit rate at 5%. The Bank is also continuing its policy of quantitative tightening. G ...

Smart move: bridge financing provides a smooth transition between mortgages

July 11, 2023 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

Summer is officially in full swing which means vacation time, backyard barbecues, pool parties, etc., but summer is also "moving season". If you're one of the many Canadians who will be moving t ...

Some great tips to help you save for a home

June 13, 2023 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

A home for most all Canadians is likely the most significant purchase you will make in your lifetime, so it is essential to be well-prepared. It is crucial to understand how to budget and save for ...

Renewing in a higher rate environment

June 9, 2023 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

I've been getting a lot of questions lately about mortgage renewals – not surprising, given the steady rise of mortgage rates over the last couple of years. People with mortgages renewing in 2023 an ...

Strategies for Speeding Up Mortgage Repayment

June 3, 2023 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

Those of us who desire to own a home often long for the time when our mortgage is paid off. Although the majority of Canadian mortgages are usually amortized over the course of 25 years, there are a ...

Learning about the new First Home Savings Account (FHSA) program

May 15, 2023 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

With the market starting to stabilize, and in many markets housing prices starting to rise again, maybe you or someone you know is looking at purchasing their first home before home prices rise too mu ...

First-Time Home Buyer Budgeting: What You Need to Know

April 20, 2023 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

As a first-time home buyer, budgeting is an essential part of the home buying process. By carefully planning your finances and considering all of the costs associated with purchasing a home, you can e ...

Should I break my mortgage early?

April 19, 2023 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

The house you’ve had your eye on for years comes up for sale and you jump at it, interest rates have dropped or another lender is offering you what appears to be a better deal, you’ve rece ...

Struggling homeowners ask, 'Can I hang on long enough for rates to come down?'

April 12, 2023 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

Scenarios like the ones below are playing out all across Canada, in big and small markets, as homeowners grapple with the effects of inflation and high interest rates. It may be a few years before we ...

Bank Of Canada Rate Update April 12, 2023

April 12, 2023 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

Bank of Canada maintains policy rate, continues quantitative tightening The Bank of Canada today held its target for the overnight rate at 4.5%, with the Bank Rate at 4.75% and the deposit rate at 4. ...

What first-time homebuyers can expect with the new tax-free First Home Savings Account

April 5, 2023 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

Since it was proposed in the 2022 Federal Budget, we've learned more details about this exciting new program aimed at helping first-time homebuyers purchase a home. The bill is ...

Tax Rule Changes for 2023 and beyond

March 29, 2023 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

Tax-Free First Home Savings Account The Tax-Free First Home Savings Account (FHSA) rules should become effective April 1, 2023. You can contribute up to $40,000 over your lifetime and up to $8,000 fo ...

Four Ways to Take Control and Thrive in a Challenging Market

March 9, 2023 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

If you're struggling financially as a result of increased living expenses and interest rates, you are not alone. A lot of Canadians are feeling a little helpless these days, with talk of rising intere ...

Bank of Canada Rate Update March 8, 2023

March 8, 2023 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

Selling Your Home in the Winter: How You Can Make the Most of It

March 5, 2023 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

Selling your home in the winter can be a challenging task, but it can also be an opportunity to stand out in a crowded market. With fewer houses on the market and motivated buyers who are eager to mov ...

Title insurance and home insurance–protect what matters most

February 27, 2023 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

When something goes wrong with your home and you suffer a loss, you need to be able to rely on your insurance coverage. Knowing which of your insurance policies to turn to isn't always easy. Title ins ...

Where is the housing market going in 2023?

February 10, 2023 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

With 2023 underway, and the latest Bank of Canada rate increase to 4.5%, combined with the stress of the increased cost of living on Canadian households, the questions that are on everyone's minds are ...

Bank of Canada increases policy interest rate by 25 basis points, continues quantitative tightening

January 25, 2023 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

The Bank of Canada today increased its target for the overnight rate to 4½%, with the Bank Rate at 4¾% and the deposit rate at 4½%. The Bank is also continuing its policy of quantitative tightening ...

This year create financial resolutions that you can stick to

January 5, 2023 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

A new year brings a host of new year's resolutions. It's very common for people to make these resolutions around family, friends, eating better, or even the cliché going to the gym more. This year, e ...

Should You Spend the Full Mortgage Amount You're Approved For?

December 28, 2022 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

Before you start shopping for a new home, you'll need to know exactly how much house you can afford. Otherwise, you could end up in a home that is way out of your budget. What you qualify for may not ...

The Pros and Cons of Fixed vs. Variable Mortgages

December 8, 2022 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

When it comes to choosing a mortgage, borrowers in Canada have two main options: a fixed rate mortgage or a variable mortgage. But which type is best for you? Here, we'll take a look at the pros and c ...

The Pros and Cons of Locking In your Mortgage Rate

December 8, 2022 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

The Pros and Cons of Locking In The holiday season is upon us, bringing an end to a tumultuous year. 2022 saw inflation reach levels not seen for 40 years, followed by substantial interest rate hik ...

Bank of Canada increases policy interest rate by 50 basis points, continues quantitative tightening

December 7, 2022 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

The Bank of Canada today increased its target for the overnight rate to 4¼%, with the Bank Rate at 4½% and the deposit rate at 4¼%. The Bank is also continuing its policy of quantitative tightening ...

Thinking of buying? Don't be put off by high rates.

November 3, 2022 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

2022 has already been tough on Canadians' wallets, and recent economic data shows the pain is unlikely to end soon. Inflation continues to run hot, and on October 26 the Bank of Canada further r ...

Bank of Canada Rate Update October 26, 2022

October 26, 2022 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

Bank of Canada increases policy interest rate by 50 basis points, continues quantitative tightening The Bank of Canada today increased its target for the overnight rate to 3.75%, with the Bank Rate a ...

Best Ways to Plan for Your Down Payment

October 19, 2022 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

Best Ways to Plan for Your Down Payment Do mortgages seem unaffordable? These tips will help you plan for your down payment so you can start talking to a private lender mortgage broker in no time. ...

A fresh look at the opportunities in today's housing market from a mortgage perspective

October 11, 2022 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

When news reports present a consistently gloomy view of rising rates and the distinctly negative impact on the housing market, it's easy to feel discouraged. But the news frequently doesn't tell the f ...

How Mortgage Rates Affect Buying Power?

September 16, 2022 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

How Mortgage Rates Affect Buying Power? Do You Know How Your Mortgage Rate Affects Buying Power? To maximize your purchasing power, you should understand how interest rates impact your home buying p ...

A look at how rate increases impact different mortgage types

September 8, 2022 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

With inflation at its highest level in almost 40 years, the Bank of Canada continues to take drastic action to cool the economy with the latest of five consecutive rate increases announced on Septembe ...

Bank Of Canada Rate Update September 7, 2022

September 7, 2022 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

Bank of Canada increases policy interest rate by 75 basis points, continues quantitative tightening The Bank of Canada today increased its target for the overnight rate to 3.25%, with the Bank Rate ...

Should You Pay Off Your Mortgage Early?

August 24, 2022 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

It's a dream to be able to pay off your mortgage early, but is there a downside? While it sounds like a great idea, there are some factors to consider before doing so. This article will explore some o ...

Budgeting for Inflation

August 4, 2022 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

If you thought the end of the pandemic would bring a return to economic normalcy, 2022 has certainly been surprising. Summer has seen inflation return to the forefront of consumers' economic worries f ...

Bank Of Canada Rate Update July 13, 2022

July 13, 2022 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

Bank of Canada increases policy interest rate by 100 basis points, continues quantitative tightening The Bank of Canada today increased its target for the overnight rate to 2.5%, with the Bank Rate ...

Mortgage Fundamentals for Home Purchases

July 7, 2022 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

Mortgage Fundamentals for Home Purchases With interest rates continuing to rise, and housing markets beginning to cool, if you're considering a home purchase anytime soon, it's a good idea to revisit ...

Mortgage Fundamentals for Home Purchases

July 7, 2022 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

With interest rates continuing to rise, and housing markets beginning to cool, if you're considering a home purchase anytime soon, it's a good idea to revisit some mortgage fundamentals to ensure you' ...

How Rising Rates Can Affect Your Mortgage

June 3, 2022 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

The one-two-punch of supply chain issues and the war in Ukraine has pushed inflation in Canada to its highest level in 30 years and spurred the Bank of Canada to move toward a tighter monetary polic ...

Bank Of Canada Rate Update June 1, 2022

June 1, 2022 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

Bank of Canada increases policy interest rate by 50 basis points, continues quantitative tightening The Bank of Canada today increased its target for the overnight rate to 1½%, with the Bank Rate at ...

How a Mortgage Pre-Approval Can Protect You from Rising Rates

May 26, 2022 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

With interest rates rising, it's important to lock in a lower rate as soon as possible. You can do this with the right home mortgage pre-approval. Find out how! Do you plan on searching for and buy ...

The Tax Free First Home Savings Account (FHSA) explained

May 5, 2022 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

The Tax Free First Home Savings Account (FHSA) explained If you or someone you know is saving for a down payment on their first home, the Federal government announced a new program aimed at first-tim ...

How is a Private Mortgage Different Than a Traditional Bank Mortgage

May 4, 2022 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

Understanding the difference between private mortgages and traditional bank mortgages can help you make the best decision for financing a new home. Each option provides the money to secure real estate ...

Bank Of Canada Rate Update April 13, 2022

April 13, 2022 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

Bank of Canada increases policy interest rate by 50 basis points, begins quantitative tightening The Bank of Canada today increased its target for the overnight rate to 1%, with the Bank Rate at 1¼% ...

Higher Interest Rates are Here. What Does That Mean for You?

March 9, 2022 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

The Bank of Canada has been signaling for a while now that they will respond to inflation by raising interest rates. Sure enough, on March 2nd they announced a hike in the overnight rate by 0.25%. H ...

Bank Of Canada Rate Update March 2, 2022

March 2, 2022 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

Bank of Canada Increases Policy Interest Rate The Bank of Canada today increased its target for the overnight rate to ½ %, with the Bank Rate at ¾ % and the deposit rate at ½ %. The Bank is contin ...

Bank Of Canada Rate Update January 26, 2022

January 26, 2022 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

Bank of Canada maintains policy rate, removes exceptional forward guidance The Bank of Canada today held its target for the overnight rate at the effective lower bound of ¼ %, with the Bank Rate at ...

Top 10 Questions to Ask Your Mortgage Broker in Alberta

How Much of A Mortgage Can You Afford?

January 5, 2022 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

How Much of a Mortgage Can You Afford? Mortgage Application: How Much of A Mortgage Can You Afford? The mortgage application process involves a buyer's due diligence in calculating how much mortgage ...

Sensible strategies to help you thrive in 2022

December 23, 2021 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

Canadians keep talking about the housing market! Are we in a housing bubble, will rates rise in 2022 and by how much, is this the right time to buy or refinance, is a lender's renewal offer the best ...

Prequalification and Pre-Approval—What is the Difference? Home Buying in Alberta

December 15, 2021 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

What is the Difference Between Pre-Qualification and Pre-Approval? Prequalification and Pre-Approval-What is the Difference? Prequalification is a basic review of the borrower's information to deter ...

Bank Of Canada Rate Update December 9, 2021

December 8, 2021 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

Bank of Canada maintains policy rate and forward guidance The Bank of Canada today held its target for the overnight rate at the effective lower bound of ¼ percent, with the Bank Rate at ½ percent ...

Preparing for Higher Rates

November 26, 2021 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

Given inflationary pressures, the Bank of Canada indicated in their last rate announcement that rate hikes could take place earlier than previously indicated, in mid-2022, which means variable rates t ...

What to do if You Are Denied a Mortgage

November 24, 2021 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

What to do if You Are Denied a Mortgage Main reasons Why your mortgage application is Denied and What to do If Mortgage lenders reject Yours Mortgage lenders often reject loan application requests f ...

How to Know if it's Time to Refinance

November 3, 2021 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

How to Know if it's Time to Refinance According to mortgage advisors, mortgage refinancing is one of the ways to make and save money from your home loan. When done right mortgage refinancing benefits ...

Bank Of Canada Rate Update Oct 27, 2021

October 27, 2021 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

Bank of Canada maintains policy rate and forward guidance, ends quantitative easing The Bank of Canada today held its target for the overnight rate at the effective lower bound of ¼ percent, with ...

What Is Home Equity and How Can I Build It?

October 6, 2021 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

Home equity is an essential asset for creating wealth and income. Learn how home equity is calculated, why it's important, and five steps you can take to build it. As you make monthly mortgage paymen ...

What's Involved in Giving Your Child a Boost to Home Ownership?

October 6, 2021 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

What's Involved in Giving Your Child a Boost to Home Ownership? With the financial demands of school loans, living expenses, and finding a career path, many young people struggle to purchase their fi ...

Bank Of Canada Rate Update Sept 8, 2021

September 8, 2021 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

Bank of Canada maintains policy rate, continues forward guidance and current pace of quantitative easing The Bank of Canada today held its target for the overnight rate at the effective lower boun ...

Getting a Mortgage as a Student

August 18, 2021 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

Purchasing a home is most likely one of the most sizable purchases most of us will ever make, and finally, buying a home is a dream come true for most. For students, it may seem like this dream is fo ...

What Happens if You Lose Your Job Before Closing?

August 4, 2021 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

A job loss a few days or weeks prior to closing your home purchase can be distressing; especially when you have no alternative source of income. Getting a new job can ease the situation, but it's not ...

How a Funding Condition Can Secure Purchasers From Financial and Legal Penalties in Alberta

July 21, 2021 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

When you make a deal to buy a home, in addition to thinking about how much money to provide, you likewise need to think about any conditions that you want to include. Some common conditions deal with ...

Bank Of Canada Rate Update July 14, 2021

July 14, 2021 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

Bank of Canada maintains policy rate and forward guidance, adjusts quantitative easing program The Bank of Canada today held its target for the overnight rate at the effective lower bound of ¼ per ...

Risks of Putting Down a Firm Offer with a Pre-Approval Alberta

July 7, 2021 | Posted by: Cathy Henbest

Risks of Putting Down a Firm Offer with a Pre-Approval Today, the real estate market is competitive and homebuyers need all the help they can get to secure their home at the right price. Once you fin ...

Building Relationships, Providing Options, Creating Opportunities.

Category: Mortgage (125 posts)

Blog Categories